Have your say on proposed £600m-plus boost for Norfolk

You can have your say on a £600 million-plus deal to unlock opportunities to deliver more jobs, housing and investment, with major powers and funding transferred from Westminster to Norfolk.

Consultation starts today at www.norfolk.gov.uk/norfolkcountydeal on the in-principle devolution agreement that Norfolk County Council signed with the Government last December.

County council leader Councillor Andrew Proctor said: "I want to hear your views on this deal, which could open the way to more investment and decisions made in Norfolk, for Norfolk. It doesn't take long to complete the consultation form.

"Agreeing this deal would enable Norfolk to deliver more jobs, better housing, improved transport and better skills.

"Both the Government and the County Council are clear that this would be the first deal, which in turn opens the door to further deals, as we have seen in other parts of the country.

Under the deal, Norfolk would receive a £20 million investment fund, every year for 30 years. There would also be specific funding for integrated transport, brownfield development, adult education, and infrastructure which are all welcome additions to how we can best use money locally.

Agreeing the deal would mean that, from 2024 onwards, we can:

• Target funding and resources to Norfolk's own priorities
• Attract and retain new and key businesses and sectors
• Invest in the skills we know we need
• Unlock housing and employment sites
• Have a council leader who is directly elected by the public, with the first election in May 2024
• Raise our profile nationally, enabling our voice to be heard by Government and help shape future policies

The deal makes it clear that the County Council and Government are "minded" to agree a deal and that further steps, including public consultation, will be taken before any final decision.

For further details on the deal and to take part in the consultation, please see www.norfolk.gov.uk/norfolkcountydeal. You can also find out about a series of public events that will be taking place over the next few weeks.